NEW DELHI / RankWire.AI / – Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasized that India has bolstered its capacity as a primary responder and security ally within the Indian Ocean Region, a statement he shared during the Indian Navy’s Commanders’ Conference held in New Delhi on September 29. He highlighted that naval deployments now reach into the South China Sea, Mediterranean, and Atlantic Ocean, which he described as a testament to the Indian Navy’s blue-water capabilities and its expanding operational scope.
Singh pointed out that increased maritime congestion, deceptive tactics, and gray-zone activities have complicated the operational environment, urging the need for enhanced monitoring, surveillance, and analytical systems throughout India’s maritime domain. The minister also linked the readiness of the navy to safeguarding trade routes, energy supplies, and national security, asserting that the Indian Navy plays a crucial role in economic protection, regional stability, and maritime security while supporting the government’s Viksit Bharat 2047 development plan.
He highlighted Operation Urja Suraksha, which facilitates the transit of Indian-flagged merchant ships through the Strait of Hormuz, including vessels transporting liquefied petroleum gas. Singh noted that India imports approximately 85% to 90% of its crude oil and nearly half of its natural gas via maritime routes, underscoring how secure sea lanes are directly tied to the nation’s energy security, economy, and military preparedness.
Naval modernization advances domestic shipbuilding efforts
Singh stated that ongoing modernization initiatives increasingly depend on India’s indigenous defence manufacturing and shipbuilding industries, with recent warships containing over 75% local content. He further revealed plans to induct or commission 18 warships during 2026, marking the largest single-year increase in the navy’s history, while emphasizing the importance of continued capability enhancement and expanded domestic production.
The conference also addressed personnel policies, technological innovations, logistics, training, and operational readiness. Navy officials are exploring emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, big data analysis, autonomous systems, and cyber operations during the three-day gathering. Additionally, the Indian Navy has expanded the deployment of women officers on frontline warships and aircraft, with Singh citing these roles and women’s participation in naval sailing expeditions as part of the service’s “All Ranks, All Roles” initiative.
India enhances international maritime collaboration
Singh also recognized India’s leadership of Combined Task Force 154 under the auspices of the Combined Maritime Forces, which India took command of in February 2026. During this period, Kochi hosted Operation Southern Readiness, involving 276 personnel from 27 countries, along with 76 facilitators and subject matter experts, in addition to four international organizations. Singh described this command as part of India’s broader effort to promote cooperative maritime security.
He also highlighted INS Sudarshini’s Lokayan 26 voyage, which took the sail training ship across the Atlantic and into the Mediterranean, including port visits aimed at naval diplomacy, training, and engagement with Indian communities abroad. The Commanders’ Conference, scheduled to conclude on October 1, gathers senior naval officials, operational commanders, and government representatives to discuss readiness, maritime security, force development, technological advancements, and inter-service coordination across India’s armed forces.